Associate Degree in Religious Studies

About this programme

The Associate Degree in Religious Studies is the foundational stage of Luis Brion University's three-step pathway in religious studies, theology and philosophy. It introduces the study of religion through Christian Scripture, theology, philosophy, Church history, liturgy, ethics and spiritual tradition, and builds the introductory academic skills the later stages depend on: careful reading, interpretation, discussion, ethical reasoning and research. The programme does not presume that you are preparing for ordination or formal religious life — it is designed as a broad intellectual foundation that is equally suitable for study, teaching and community service. The curriculum content is developed together with Sacred Hearts International Seminary, under the academic responsibility of Luis Brion University.

Who is this for?

This programme is intended for:

• Students who want a structured first academic introduction to religion and theology
• Church, parish and community workers seeking a proper foundation
• Teachers, youth workers and volunteers with a formation role
• Adults preparing for further bachelor-level study in religious studies or a related field

What you will be able to do

• Explain foundational concepts in religious studies, Christian theology and philosophy
• Identify major themes and structures within Sacred Scripture and Christian tradition
• Describe key developments in Church history, liturgy and sacramental life
• Apply introductory philosophical and ethical reasoning to religious questions
• Communicate religious and theological ideas in clear academic writing and discussion
• Recognise the distinctive contribution of Benedictine and Cistercian spirituality to Christian formation
• Demonstrate readiness for further bachelor-level study in religious studies or a related field

Programme content

1. 01Introduction to Religious Studies
2. 02Ecclesial Identity and the Church
3. 03Introduction to Philosophy (including The Love of Wisdom)
4. 04Introduction to Sacred Scripture
5. 05Introduction to Catholic Theology and Christian Doctrine
6. 06Church History and Apostolic Tradition I
7. 07Introduction to Liturgical Studies
8. 08Foundations of Sacramental Theology
9. 09Christian Moral Theology and Ethics
10. 10Introduction to Saint Benedict and Cistercian Spirituality
11. 11Academic Writing and Research
12. 12Integrative Religious Studies Project

Provisional module outline — the final module breakdown is confirmed before the start of each cohort.

Entry requirements

Placeholder: admission requirements, recognition of prior learning and transfer credit are still to be determined through LBU's academic approval process. An intake conversation is part of the procedure.

Important conditions

• This programme is presented as a draft academic proposal, submitted for LBU academic approval. Programme duration, credit values, course codes and progression rules are not yet final.
• This is an academic degree programme. It does not grant ordination, canonical standing or authorisation for ecclesiastical ministry; any such recognition remains reserved to the competent religious or ecclesiastical authority.
• Curriculum content is developed in collaboration with Sacred Hearts International Seminary, subject to Luis Brion University's academic governance, assessment and degree-awarding requirements.

Luis Brion University reserves the right to change, amend or withdraw the texts on this website, program content, curricula and learning outcomes at any time.